Dental emergency
What do you mean by Dental emergency?
Dental problems that need immediate assistance to stop bleeding, save a tooth or alleviate severe pain is termed as Dental emergency. If you have any of the symptoms, you are experiencing a dental emergency and might need immediate help; we at Lincoln Dental, an emergency dental clinic in Bulleen and Forest Hill are here to help you in these times of crises.
To help you understand that if you need to take an emergency trip to the dentist or you can wait ask yourself these few questions:
- Are you in severe pain? Severe pain as well as bleeding are both signs of an emergency.
- Have you lost a tooth? Fast treatment can potentially save a tooth.
- Do you have a loose tooth? Adults should never have loose teeth. A loose tooth can be a serious problem particularly if this has suddenly occurred.
- Do you have an infection? An abscess or serious infection that presents in your mouth can be potentially life-threatening and treatment must be sought immediately. You may notice swelling on your gums or around the face.
- Are you bleeding from the mouth? Bleeding from the mouth is a potential sign of an emergency.
Comprehensive routine dental check-ups and good oral hygiene can prevent many dental emergencies, but sometimes dental emergencies can happen regardless and we might need help.
Common dental emergencies are:
- Abscessed tooth – A dental abscess is a condition where a pocket of pus in the tooth has led to an infection. Symptoms can include fever, tooth sensitivity to temperature (both hot and cold), a constant toothache, tender lymph nodes around the neck area, swelling on the face, and a pimple on your gums near the infected tooth. This condition is an emergency and is potentially life-threatening as the infection can spread to your jaw and other areas of the body. You must go to your nearest dentist to get immediate attention.
- Cracked or Chipped Tooth – If you have a very painful or serious tooth fracture, apply a cold compress to the outside of your face to reduce swelling. Avoid applying numbing gel as it can damage your gums and contact the emergency dentist near you.
- Knocked out tooth – If you act swiftly after a tooth has been knocked out, it may still be possible for your dentist to reinsert and preserve the tooth. Carefully pick up the tooth by the crown and take extra care not to touch the root. Gently rinse it without scrubbing. If possible, reinsert the tooth back in to the socket. If that’s not a possibility, place the tooth in a small container of milk and get to the dentist quickly to increase the chances of saving your tooth.
Lincoln Dental at Bulleen and Forest Hill, close to both Doncaster and Templestowe areas, with the latest diagnostic tools, experienced dentists, friendly and supportive staff can make your dental experience as comfortable as possible. If you are facing a dental emergency, please do not hesitate to call us on (03) 9939 3032. Stay home, stay safe.